Cook's England face Mexico in the final, after a 3-1 semi-final win over Auld Enemy Scotland

Reflecting on a remarkable few months, Cook told SunSport: "A year ago if you'd have asked me I probably wouldn't have believed that the things that have happened would have. Football's like that, it's so up and down.

"But I always believe if you keep working hard the rewards will come and I'll keep doing that.

"I've really enjoyed the last year and it's 12 months I'll never forget. It's been brilliant and that's down to Bournemouth and everyone at the club helping me to get to this stage. Now I'm really looking forward to another big game."

Standing in the way of more glory is a tough Mexico side on Saturday night.

England U17’s lift the World Cup as they beat Spain U’17’s to win after stunning comeback in India

Having already had a taste of senior England action - and there still being a slim possibility of him being on the plane for Russia - Cook could have been tempted to take his foot off the gas in France.

But having been handed the armband by Boothroyd, the Cherries man insists he knows the responsibilities that carries.

And he is adamant that being on the stand-by list has not effected his mindset going into Toulon.

Cook said: "It's not been difficult. No matter what age group you are involved in, ultimately you are all involved in the same team - that's England.